Linda’s long weekend message for health care workers

When I first heard about the novel coronavirus last fall I could not have predicted its spread and the global response, as it would be unprecedented in my lifetime. In late February, when I first met with federal Minister of Health Patty Hajdu to discuss COVID-19 protections, we had 25 cases, and as I write this letter we now have over 18,000 cases. The rapid pace has left me, and all health care workers, little time to pause and reflect.

Today, on what is a holiday weekend for many, I am reflecting on one of the most constant truths that is at the core of what makes us health care workers: our commitment to our patients and the public. Even at the best of times we miss holidays, birthdays, our children’s recitals – all in service to the caring profession we love.

I want all health care workers to know that there are simply no words of gratitude that are enough for the contribution they are making. Our nurses and health care workers are the foundation of our public health care system and our best shot at beating this pandemic.

In recognition of the incredible work and bravery of Canada’s health care workers, I invite you to join me this Monday April 13 at 6:30 p.m. EDT for a special live event streaming on my Facebook page. I will be joined by the presidents of provincial nurses unions from across the country and the president of the Canadian Nursing Students’ Association.

Like my Facebook page to be notified when we go live on Monday April 13: www.facebook.com/Linda4Workers. If you can’t watch it live, you can also view a recording after the event.

As health care workers fight for everyone in Canada, their unions are fighting like hell for them. We will not stop until every single health care worker in this country is as safe as they can be.